- Ann Erickson Wraps Up $10,000 Grand Prize in 13th Annual Scotch Brand Most Gifted Wrapper Contest -

Ann Erickson, gift-wrapper extraordinaire from Park City, Utah, was crowned the 2009 “Scotch Brand Most Gifted Wrapper" in a national gift-wrapping contest sponsored by 3M, the maker of Scotch brand tape and Scotch cutting tools. (For photos, video footage and additional information, visit http://www.newsinfusion.com/scotchbrand).

Amid throngs of holiday revelers at Rockefeller Center today, no bow was left untied as Erickson out-wrapped seven other gift-wrapping gurus to win the ultimate holiday present – a $10,000 cash prize. With Scotch Tape in hand, Erickson and her worthy competitors went bow-to-bow wrapping odd-shaped gifts, including a bicycle and a seven-foot tall sailboat, with creativity, style and flair.

Erickson offers this advice to those who are getting ready to wrap their holiday presents: “Before you start wrapping, have the necessary supplies on hand like gift-wrap paper, ribbon, scissors, tape and a Scotch paper cutter,” said Erickson. “Don’t worry about making the perfect bow or folding the corners exact; gift wrapping is all about simple elegance and of course, having fun in the process!”

The first runner-up, John Rutherford, from Cincinnati, Ohio, received a $2,500 cash prize. The other six contestants also received smaller cash prizes. Contestants were judged on three criteria: appearance, technique and speed.

The judging panel consisted of three experts in the art of gift-wrapping: Mark Ski, former producer for Martha Stewart Living; Gina Tepper, gift-wrapping expert from GiftDecorating.com; and Wanda Wen, co-owner of Soolip Paperie & Press whose book, “The Art of Gift Wrapping,” is scheduled for release in Spring 2010.

About 3M

A recognized leader in research and development, 3M produces thousands of innovative products for dozens of diverse markets. 3M’s core strength is applying its more than 40 distinct technology platforms – often in combination – to a wide array of customer needs. With $25 billion in sales, 3M employs 75,000 people worldwide and has operations in more than 60 countries. For more information, visit www.3M.com.

Hunter Public RelationsAmanda Brokaw, 212-679-6600, ext. 210Cell: 917-750-8554abrokaw@hunterpr.comorMelissa Kuhn, 212-679-6600, ext. 223Cell: 954-328-3392mkuhn@hunterpr.comor3MHelen Wagner, 651-733-4858